After visiting George Nakashima’s studio and workshops in New Hope PA, I decided to undertake my most challenging project to date; a Nakashima inspired walnut credenza. I purchased rough 8/4 walnut lumber and cut sections for the side and top, then ripping each down on my bandsaw and then gluing them up to form a continuous bookmatch on the sides and top. I hand cut dovetails on all four corners and created bookmatched sliding door panels as well. The casework sits on top of a small base with splayed legs.
Priced nearly $300 less than the DeWalt 735X, the Ridgid R4331 is an excellent value. Its three-knife cutterhead left wonderfully clean surfaces on plainsawn white oak and white pine. It did not perform nearly as well on curly maple as the 735X, but it created less tearout than all but one of the other machines (the DeWalt 734 was its equal). Knife changes were quick and easy with the provided T-handle wrench. Dust collection was good, assisted by an internal fan. The 2-1/2-in.-dia. port on the outfeed side of the machine is directed to the side, so the hose is out of the way. The planer’s top is flat and provides a good surface for holding stock between passes.
With its graceful curves, cabriole legs, and ornamental back splat, a Queen Anne side chair is a bucket list build for many woodworkers. Dan Faia had a very specific Queen…
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Comments
I particulary like the match of the top and the sides out of the same boards. Beautiful!
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